Though it has a long history of traditional use for a wide variety of health conditions, apple cider vinegar has remained under the radar in scientific research.
That’s begun to change, and recent studies have explored its effectiveness for weight loss, skin conditions, blood-sugar control, and more.
History of Apple Cider Vinegar
Vinegar first appeared as a food source about 7,000 years ago in Babylonia. It was derived from dates and used as a preservative.
ACV was used extensively in ancient Greece. It was often mixed with honey and prescribed as a treatment for coughs and colds, among other maladies.
It also has a long history of medicinal use in Africa and in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
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As an Antimicrobial
Research has shown that ACV has strong antimicrobial properties.
Tests support its effectiveness against:
- Escherichia coli (E. coli)
- Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (Staph infections)
- Candida albicans fungi
All three are major causes of infections in humans.
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For Eczema
ACV has a cooling and toning effect on eczema.
It works best diluted in water or green tea but should not be used on open cuts (it will burn).
Try adding a half cup to a lukewarm bath and soaking in it.
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For Acid Reflux / Heartburn
A spoonful of ACV can help ease acid reflux or heartburn.
Don’t overdo it: ACV has a high acid profile, and can cause an stomach upset.
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For Hair Care
You can tame frizzy hair with a rinse made from equal parts ACV and water.
Rinse the hair with the mixture after shampooing.
Precautions
A typical daily dose is less than 2 tablespoons.
Check with your healthcare practitioner before adding it to your regimen.
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Potassium Deficiency
Ingesting too much ACV may cause a reduction in potassium levels.
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Dental Health
Because of its high acidity, ACV can also erode tooth enamel if overused.
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With Medications
ACV might affect the work of certain medications, including insulin.